09/15/2026
As Lane & Waterman’s Summer 2026 - Associate Program comes to a close, we want to express our gratitude to all of our exceptional associates. Your hard work and dedication have set the foundation for your future success in the legal world. Our goal is to provide hands-on experience, interpersonal skills within a firm setting, and an open platform to seek additional knowledge. At the beginning of the summer, our five associates shared their thoughts going into the program. Now they have the opportunity to reflect on their overall experience with the firm and how they will enter their final years of law school.
We conclude with Kaylee Hendrix—thank you for being a part of our program!
What has been the most helpful piece of advice or feedback you’ve received during the Summer Associate Program?
-I was really thankful for one of the firm partner’s advice on being proactive in seeking feedback this summer. Everyone at the firm is very welcoming, but I had it in my head that I couldn’t approach the partners to follow up on projects I had worked on. I gained more confidence in my work when I pushed past that mentality and asked questions.
Was there an experience or interaction that turned out different from how law school may have perceived it to be?
-In my experience in law school, you spend a lot of time learning black letter law, doctrines, and research practices. Until this summer, I hadn’t seen how important interactions between attorneys can be, especially opposing counsel. I have learned that law is happening in real time interactions and communication, not just in statutes and case law.
Do you have a favorite project/memory from working with a client or attorney?
-Some of my favorite projects this summer have been working with one of the firms of counsel attorneys in estate planning. Early in the summer, she trusted me to develop an entire estate plan for a family. I didn’t think I would be capable of something like that, but I did it. I felt very proud as we met with the clients and I saw them sign the documents I had drafted for them. She was such an amazing guide along the way.
Have your practice interests expanded, changed, or remained the same after this experience?
-They have expanded! This summer, I participated in motion practice, client meetings, trials, and transactional work, most of which were areas of law that I’d never worked in before. I found each case interesting in its own way, and now I can see myself working in all different types of law, although I have to admit, estate planning did become an area of practice that I am especially interested in. I’m going into my last year of law school with a special interest in estate planning for family farms and agriculture.
From everyone at Lane & Waterman, thank you to all our summer associates for your hard work. We wish you all the best in your upcoming school year!
https://l-wlaw.com/thank-you-happy-trails-to-our-summer-associates-at-lane-waterman-llp
